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Magpies linked with Smith raid

By Simon Fudge

Newcastle United have been reportedly linked with moves for Leeds United striker Alan Smith and Aston Villa defender Mark Delaney.

Magpies boss Sir Bobby Robson is thought to eyeing both players to help boost his St James' Park squad during January's transfer window.

The North East giants are said to be ready with a bid for Smith, should The Whites fall into administration after declaring huge financial debts, despite recent links of a takeover by a Middle Eastern consortium.

Robson has already signed two former Leeds players in Jonathan Woodgate and Lee Bowyer this year and the 23-year-old Smith is highly rated by the Newcastle supremo.

Robson is also thought to want a new right back, with Villa's Delaney joining Tottenham Hotspur defender Stephen Carr on his wanted list.

Welsh international Delaney has shined for both club and country this term, while Carr has been mooted as a long-term Newcastle target.

The Republic of Ireland international is expected to leave Tottenham as a free agent when his current deal at White Hart Lane expires in the summer, and Arsenal and The Magpies are&nbsp;believed to be&nbsp;the front-runners to land his signature.

Spurs may already be preparing for life without Carr next term following reported links that the North London outfit may make a bid for England international Danny Mills.

The Leeds United right back has been on loan this season at Middlesbrough and the Elland Road club seem prepared to offload some of their high wage-earners and cut their current debt load.